Well Worth The Effort – Tips for Well Maintenance

We’re wrapping up our “March Maintenance” series with a look at irrigation wells – and the steps you can take now to avoid problems during the growing season.

Like any other piece of valuable equipment in your operation, annual maintenance is required to keep your wells operating properly from year to year. Below are some recommended practices and procedures that can help ensure smooth operation and maximum production.

Maintain accurate records – keep annual records of well water levels, flow rate and specific capacity. Measure static water level at least once before and after the irrigation season. Record the flow rate and pumping water level at the beginning, middle and end of the season. If the specific capacity drops below 80 percent, take action to restore performance.

Check for iron bacteria and mineral incrustation to avoid screen blockage that increases the drawdown and pumping energy requirements.

Never allow the pumping level to drop below the top of the screen. Exposure to air will accelerate the buildup of mineral deposits and incrustation.

Chlorinate the well at least once a year to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Keeping wells in good working order often is a simple, but important, process. Neglect can lead to expensive repairs and, if downtime occurs during a critical time, result in a reduction in yield.

For more information about routine system maintenance consult your owner’s manual or contact your local Zimmatic dealer.